Erythropoietin in Patients with Anaemia in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract

Fe status and erythropoietin (Ep) level in serum and urine were determined in 30 patients with anemia in rheumatoid arthritis. Anemia in these patients was mild and fulfilled criteria for anemia of chronic disorders. The Fe status of these patients differed from Fe status in patients with sideropenic anemia. Serum Ep level, measured indirectly by the polycythemic mouse bioassay, was not detected or when detected it did not correspond to degree of anemia. Failure to produce sufficient Ep amount, among other causes, could be important in pathogenesis of anemia in rheumatoid arthritis.